1. Selective feeding of laying hens
Laying hen feed is usually a mix of large pellets (often cracked corn for energy) and small pellets (amino acids, P, vitamins, minerals). Hens prefer large pellets, risking excess energy and shortfalls of vitamins A/D, riboflavin, Na, lysine, methionine—leading to lower lay and weak shells.
Large vs small pellets — function & risk
| Fraction | Main nutrients | Bird preference | Common risk if over-selected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large pellets | Energy (e.g., cracked corn) | High | Over-energy, fatty hens, vitamin/AA deficits |
| Small pellets | AAs, P, Vit & mineral premix | Lower | Under-consumption → poor shell & egg output |
Feeding management to balance intake
- Empty-trough window: Stop feed for 2–4 h at noon so hens clear small pellets left in troughs.
- Right frequency & allotment: Avoid too many feedings or oversized drops; target that both fractions are finished daily.
- Real-time observation: Check trough sediment; adjust auger timing and drop size accordingly.
2. How to mix the laying hen feed? Pay attention to these points, basically the same
Key points when formulating/mixing
- Season & age adjustment
- Temperature and production stage change energy, Ca and AA needs.
- Do not run one fixed formula all year; otherwise soft/bad shells may increase.
- Trace elements—meet, don’t exceed
- Excess can antagonize absorption and increase cost without benefit.
- Cover gaps vs. your base ingredients; follow spec sheets for levels.
- Protein to target
- Protein supports lay but too high → excess N → uric acid load (gout risk).
- Hit AA targets (Lys/Met) rather than just crude protein.
Practical tips
- Brooding: use complete feed; add fresh green forage appropriately to improve intake.
- Peak lay: some farms add a portion of grains with a balanced concentrate; ensure vitamins/minerals are adequate.
- Always use fresh, non-moldy ingredients to avoid mycotoxin issues.
Need help?
- For project support (e.g., high quality chicken feed pellet making plant, small poultry feed mill price, ring die poultry feed mill equipment): enquiry@cn-pellet.com · +86 185 7410 3366
- How to process layer feed with a production line? See: animal feed manufacturing process machine of poultry feed plant
